Info Not Necessary
What do you need to know? In the age of information overload, there’s a podcast, Ted Talk, Youtube video, app or blog to address whatever your problem is. If we need a quick statistic or game score. We hold up our phone and say, “Ok Google.” Need an opinion? Ask the question on Facebook or email out a survey from survey monkey and instantly get suggestions.But if we have all the info, why do we still have problems? Why do we still feel bothered?Is information what we are really looking for?When I’ve had a frustrating day, my computer maybe able to tell me one hundred answers for how to go about my day differently. But what I’m really searching for, is someone who cares, someone who will listen with a sympathetic ear.I can make a hundred excuses as to why I shouldn’t seek out a friend: I’m shy, they don’t want to hear about my problems, they’re busy, I don’t want to bother them, and I’m just getting started. Keep in mind though, in nature, it’s usually the lone animal or outlier who gets picked off from the herd. It’s the devil’s best tactic too. Get her alone. Make her feel bad about herself. Replay the old footage of her mistakes over and over within her mind until she feels unwanted and unloved. If we’re isolated and alone, we’re harder on ourselves, we lose perspective, and our problems seem magnified.I’ve been there. That same old trick has worked on me, but I’ve learned to fight back. I anchor myself into God and my small group.On WebMD, Tom Valeo wrote an article, “Good Friends are Good for You.” In the article, he lists what research has shown to be the benefits of friendships. Here are some of the findings of a strong social network:
- Live longer
- Wards off depression
- Boosts self–esteem
- Provides support
- Guards against unhealthy life choices, i.e. smoking
- Shown to make cancer treatments more effective
- And can even ward off the common cold
Over the years, I have been blessed with a group of friends who hold me accountable and let me vent. They challenge me, make me laugh at myself, and cry with me. They were there when my father-in-law passed away, and they were there when my own dad had a heart attack scare. They covered me in prayer even when I didn’t have the strength to pray. I relied on them to have the faith I lacked on those doubt-filled days.How did an introvert like me find such great friends? Well, that’s where technology maybe helpful. Finding a common interest group within a church is a great place to start. My closest friends and I all met through different small groups, and I cannot emphasize enough its benefits if you are looking for a safe place where you can get real.I think actor Harrison Ford said it best, “My best friend is the one who brings out the best in me.”